Modified atmosphere packaging for ultrasound transducer cartridge
View Patent ↗A modified atmosphere package for extending the shelf life of a replaceable transducer cartridge having a sealed volume and containing a fluid. The fluid may be fluid or a gas. If a fluid, such as water, then the modified atmosphere package may be configured to prevent the loss of fluid or the entry of gas into the transducer cartridge.
1. An apparatus for use with an ultrasound therapy head, the apparatus comprising:
a package having a base defining a volume and a cover configured to be removably attached to said base; and
a cartridge received within the first volume, the cartridge including an enclosure configured to be removably coupled with the ultrasound therapy head, a coupling fluid inside the enclosure, an ultrasound transducer inside the enclosure, a heat exchanger external to the enclosure, and water in the heat exchanger,
wherein the cover seals the cartridge within the first volume when attached to the base, the water has a volume of 0.5 milliliters to 1.5 milliliters, and the sealed first volume contains a modified atmosphere comprising a humidity level greater than or equal to 60%.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the base and the cover are configured to be resealed after the cover is detached from the base.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus further comprises:
a second package having a base defining a second volume for receiving a sealed package therein, and a second cover for sealing the second volume.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the second volume is filled with gas.
5. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the second volume is filled with a liquid.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a modified atmosphere bag for receiving said apparatus, the bag being filled with an inert gas and having a positive gauge pressure.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the heat exchanger comprises copper.
8. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising:
internal feet for contacting the cartridge and stabilizing the cartridge in the package.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the humidity of the modified atmosphere originates from the water in the heat exchanger.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the humidity has a level greater than or equal to 80%.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the humidity has a level greater than or equal to 95%.
12. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the humidity has a level greater than or equal to 100%.
13. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the heat exchanger includes at least one conduit that is partially filled by the water.